Why the White Van Man Stereotype Is Under Threat

The stereotype of the ‘white van man’ looks to be under threat as an increasing number of women purchase commercial vehicles, according to a new study.

32 percent of van owners are women, which suggest the diversity of commercial vehicle drivers are challenging the misconceptions about the traditional figure behind the wheel.

Females applying for licences for the heaviest road vehicles have increased in number by 29 percent in the past three years alone. C1E and C1 license applications for heavy vehicles weighing between 7,500 and 3,500kg have soared.

Leisure and Occupational Use

The white van man stereotype has been under threat in recent years, as a broad range of drivers opt for white vans to use in a wide range of leisure pursuits and occupations.

There has been a growing demand for commercial vehicles that facilitate weekend and lifestyle hobbies. Vans are a more cost-effective option than SUVs or larger cars, with a very healthy used van market now in existence. There was a 4.4 percent rise in commercial van sales for 2017’s third quarter.

The number of internet searches for vans for sale has increased 47 percent this year, with an impressive 10.5 million adverts viewed per month.

The stereotypical white van full of tabloid newspapers and pie wrappers has been replaced with broadsheet readers, as middle-class drivers now use a van.

People are increasingly benefiting from commercial vehicles, as they are used beyond courier and labouring work. With an increase in connectivity, improved technology and contemporary interiors, the overall van driving experience has become more comfortable.